An Open Letter to Daycare Teachers
I must give props to my fellow daycare teachers. I mean come on we are really underappreciated! It’s one of those universal truths that we all know and kind of accept that daycare workers are on the bottom of the food chain in terms of pay, understanding and appreciation. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “How hard can it be — it’s not like you teach them things?” or “Oh, you’re so lucky you play with cute babies all day!”
Somehow people don’t think about all the dirty diapers, multiple bottles and feedings, projectile vomiting, multiple changes of clothes and trying to sooth cranky babies, little ones with colic and teething pains. Especially when all 10 of them happen to be screaming at the same time. Taking great care of the precious little ones is so very important and generally for little more than minimum wage. We do this job because we love children and it is satisfying to see them develop, grow and thrive!
Everyone knows of school teachers and all the work that they put into lesson plans, creating classrooms to promote developmental growth, and all that they give to help children have the best environment to grow. But let’s take a step back and think about what daycare teachers/caregivers do and what they are paid? Is the compensation and pay in line with the responsibilities?
Know that you are appreciated for everything you do by those around you. Parents do appreciate you — especially when you leave for another position. It’s hard for them too. Many parents are conflicted with their children in daycare. They realize that the daycare teachers get to spend more waking time with their children than they do many days. I’d like to say thank you!
-Lindsey
